Man who hired the Gunners' gaffer in 1996 knows the punters want silverware and sighs "It's the old story - people have short memories"

Former Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein has urged angry Gunners fans to keep trusting in Arsene Wenger - but admits he understands their growing frustration.

Dein still regrets his acrimonious forced departure from the Emirates board in 2007 and has never hidden his wish to go back to the club he loves.

Fans annoyed by the way the club is being run by owner Stan Kroenke and chief executive Ivan Gazidis are increasingly critical of Wenger, asking if his reign should now come to an end as Arsenal face the prospect of an eighth successive trophy-less season.

But the man who was instrumental in the appointment of his close friend Wenger in 1996 still believes the Frenchman is the way forward.